Sosa Offers Apology for Hard Slide

By Jorge Arangure Jr.July 29, 2005

For Rod Barajas there are no hard feelings after Sammy Sosa put a gash in the Texas Rangers catcher's left arm in the 10th inning of Wednesday's game. Sosa immediately apologized for kicking Barajas while sliding and then called the Texas clubhouse after the game.

"I really respected the fact he did call and clear the air," Barajas said. "For me there was no real situation once he popped up and apologized and called over. I don't think any less of Sosa."

Rangers Manager Buck Showalter did not appear so forgiving. Showalter was upset at Sosa after the game and only mellowed slightly a day later.

"It was a nice gesture," Showalter said coldly. "It's a lot better that way than the other way. We appreciate it."

When asked if he noticed that Sosa was apologetic at home plate as soon as he had kicked Barajas, Showalter said, "You mean when Rod was standing over him?"

Showalter indicated he did not believe there would be any retaliation by any of his players.

"That situation was over [Wednesday] night," Showalter said. "We're not in a position to lose players."

Sosa declined to speak to reporters.

Newhan Jumps Right In

It did not take long for David Newhan to return to the lineup after being recalled to the Orioles from Class AAA Ottawa on Tuesday. Newhan started in left and hit eighth on Wednesday. Manager Lee Mazzilli said Newhan played right away because he had done so well in Ottawa. Prior to being recalled, Newhan was hitting .366 (15 for 41) for the Lynx. . . .

Outfielder Eli Marrero, who was placed on the disabled list with torn ligaments in his right hand, will miss the remainder of the season.